
Book_ 



LATIN AMERICA 
AND THE WAR 



Special Memorandum 

PREPARED BY 

JOHN BARRETT 

Director General of the Pan-American Union and former United States Minister 
to Argentina, Panama and Colombia 

ASSISTED BY 

BENITO JAVIER PEREZ-VERDIA 

of the Pan-American Union Staff 



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WASHINGTON, D. C. 
1919 



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LATIN AMERICA AND THE WAR 

An unofficial but verified memorandum prepared by John Barrett, 
Director-General of the Pan American Union and former United 
States Minister to Argentina, Panama, and Colombia, assisted by 
Benito Javier Perez- Verdia, of the Pan American Union Staff. 

EIGHT of the twenty nations of Latin America actually declared war on 
Germany : Brazil, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, 
Nicaragua, and Panama. Five other Latin American states broke off diplo- 
matic relations with Germany: Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, 
Peru and Uruguay. Salvador declared herself in favor of benevolent neu- 
trality toward the United States, which permitted the use of her territorial 
ports and waters by the war-ships of the United States and the AlHes. The 
six remaining neutral nations : Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Para- 
guay and Venezuela, either by the statements of their Executives or by 
resolutions passed by their Congresses, or again by the pro-ally tone of the 
majority of their leading newspapers, and finally by the utterances of their 
most representative statesmen, also expressed themselves in favor of Pan 
American solidarity. 

It would be unfair to consider the attitude assumed by these neutral 
countries as antagonistic to the international policy of the United States 
and the Allies, and it should be interpreted as the decision in exercise of 
their sovereignty consistently to maintain their attitude in the absence of 
specific wrongs committed against them which would have jeopardized their 
national interests. When the German submarines sank two Argentine ves- 
sels that Republic earnestly demanded immediate reparation from Germany 
and the promise to respect Argentine shipping, to which Germany was com- 
pelled to agree. She refused a few months later to make a similar arrange- 
ment with Peru, and the result of her refusal was that this country broke 
ofif diplomatic relations with the German Empire. 

The Argentine as well as the Columbian Congresses passed resolutions 
in condemnation of the German policy of ruthlessness. The Chilean Presi- 
dent in his message of June 1, 1917, gave solemn warning to Germany 
that the Chilean nation would take adequate steps against any acts of Ger- 
many which would endanger Chilean interests, and the President of Vene- 
zuela made a similar statement. The President of Mexico praised officially 
in the highest terms the attitude of Belgium in her gallant resolution to 
resist to the utmost the invasion of the German armies, and the President 
of Paraguay has also expressed himself in favor of the United States and 
the Allies. 

3 



The Latin American nations, which declared war or broke relations, 
would appear to have been moved either entirely by their desire to show a 
friendly attitude toward the United States as a sister republic in its struggle 
against Germany, or by their belief that Pan American solidarity demanded 
fundamentally such a serious step. Brazil had several of her vessels sunk 
by German submarines; Cuba and Panama readily recognized the special 
ties binding them to the United States and declared war on Germany on the 
day following a similar declaration by the United States. Guatemala and 
Haiti, unsatisfied with the result of their diplomatic representations regard- 
ing the establishment of the illegal German blockade, declared war against 
the Imperial Government. Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua adopted 
identical resolutions as an evidence of their endorsement of the principles 
proclaimed by President Wilson, and their sympathy toward the Allies' 
cause. Five of the nations which broke off diplomatic relations with Ger- 
many, viz., Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay, 
were inspired in doing so by the ideals of Pan American solidarity. Uruguay 
had the distinction of setting forth a very advanced principle, which is 
practically a new doctrine of international policy, when she declared that 
*'no American country which in defense of its own rights should find itself 
in a state of war with nations of other continents will be treated as a 
belligerent." 

On the threshold of the future which opens to-day to mankind, the 
Latin American peoples contemplate with great satisfaction the rising of 
the new order of things based on Equity and Right as the attainment of an 

ideal which assures the American nations — weak as well as powerful of 

the reign of Justice in the international relations of Sovereign States. 

The attitude of each country of Latin America during the war is briefly 
summarized as follows : 

ARGENTINE REPUBLIC 

Though Argentina is officially classified as a neutral country, the popular 
sentiment is overwhelmingly in favor, of the United States and the Allies. 
A notable reception was accorded at Buenos Aires to the American fleet 
commanded by Admiral Caperton, and invited to visit the capital by the 
Argentine Government. 100,000 people are reported to have taken part in 
a demonstration demanding that diplomatic relations be broken with Ger- 
many, and Argentina has been several times on the verge of a rupture with 
the Central Empires. 

When Germany informed the Foreign Ofiice of the Argentine Republic 
concerning the submarine blockade, the latter in its note of acknowledge- 
ment of the communication, dated February 7, 1917, said : 

"The Argentine Government regrets that His Imperial Majesty has 
thought necessary to adopt such extreme measures and declares that it will 
adjust its conduct, as always, to the fundamental rules and principles of 
international law." 



Within her conception of neutrality, Argentina found it consistent with 
her attitude to express approval of the international policy of the United 
States and Cuba in declaring war on Germany as well as of the action of 
Brazil and Bolivia in breaking off their diplomatic relations on April 11, 
and April 13, 1917, respectively, with the German Empire. 

"The Government of the Argentine Republic" — stated the Minister of 
Foreign Affairs of that country in his note of April 10, 1917, to the Amer- 
ican Ambassador — "in view of the causes which have moved the United 
States to declare war on the German Empire, recognizes the justice of this 
determination in so far as it is based on the violation of the principles of 
neutrality sanctioned by international law which were considered as definite 
conquests of civilization," 

On April 4, 1917, the Argentine sailing vessel "Monte Protegido" which 
left Pernambuco on January 27, 1917, was sunk near the Sorlingas Islands 
by a German submarine, while carrying a linen cargo consigned to Rotter- 
dam. As soon as the Argentine Government was able to secure the neces- 
sary information to ascertain the fact it entered a strong protest, asking 
Germany to apologize for the offense committed against the Argentine 
flag and to pay the damages. "The Argentine Government hopes" — reads 
the note — "that the Imperial German Government in acknowledging the 
right of the Republic will give the satisfactions which it owes her, as well 
as will make redress for the offense against the Argentine flag and will pay 
an indemnity for the damages inflicted. The Government of His Imperial 
Majesty will not fail to recognize the promptitude with which the Argentine 
Government wishes to secure an answer to its claim." 

One month had scarcely elapsed after the "Monte Protegido" controversy 
was settled and Germany had yielded to the Argentine demands, when the 
German submarines made two new victims of the Argentine vessels "Oriana" 
and "Toro." The first was sunk in the Mediterranean near Toulon, on 
June 6, 1917, while on her way to Genoa with a cargo of steel and iron, 
and the steamer "Toro," bound to the same port and loaded with meat, 
woolens, etc., was sent to the bottom on June 22, 1917. 

The sinking of these ships strained the diplomatic relations between 
Argentina and Germany near to the breaking point. The Argentine Minister 
of Foreign Affairs on July 4, 1917, instructed the Minister of Argentina 
at Berlin to present a note of protest in which, after relating the circum- 
stances surrounding the sinking of the "Toro" a protest is entered in the 
following terms, referring in the first place to the Argentine declaration to 
uphold the principles of international law : 

"It was founded on this conception, that the Argentine Government 
made her claim in the "Monte Protegido" case and accepted the explanations 
of the Imperial German Government, inasmuch as they acknowledged the 
absolute right of the Republic and granted in full the Argentine claim. In 
doing so, the government understood that such attitude of Germany implied 
in the future the protection of Argentine shipping against the war measures 
to which the German Government had decided to resort. The repetition 

5 



of the offense, however, makes the moral satisfactions and the indemnities 
for material damages entirely insufficient to safeguard the wrong right. It 
has been compelled, therefore, to enter a new protest and to demand in addi- 
tion to the moral redress and the reparation of the wrong committed, the 
assurance of the German Government to respect in the future the Argentine 
ships in their right to the freedom of the seas." 

As an evidence of the importance the Argentine Government attached 
to the controversy, and of its intention to sever diplomatic relations in case 
of an unsatisfactory reply, the Minister of Foreign Affairs added the fol- 
lowing paragraph to the note sent to the Minister of Argentina in Berlin, 
for its presentation to the German Government: "Advise by telegraph the 
date of receipt of the note and the date of delivery. You are of course 
fully aware that on account of the seriousness of the claim you have to be 
prepared for any possible emergency." 

In her answer to the Argentine note, Germany sought to justify the 
sinking of the steamer "Toro" according to the principles embodied in the 
Declaration of London, which had not been ratified by the signatory powers. 
The Argentine Government declined, however, to accept the German propo- 
sition and proclaimed in its answer dated August 4, 1917, an international 
doctrine of far-reaching importance relative to the immunity of national 
products and their exemption from being classed as contraband of war, 
because they are as the note says : "The fruits of the efforts of the Nation 
in its vital work, not to satisfy war requirements, but to meet the normal 
needs of Humanity." 

The Department of State of the United States published on September 
8, 1917, several cables dated May 19 and July 3 and 9, 1917, sent by the 
German Charge d'Affaires in Argentina through Baron Lowen, Minister 
of Sweden in Argentina, to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs in Stockholm, 
to be delivered to the Minister for Foreign Affairs in Berlin. 

These dispatches recommended the sinking of the Argentine ships with- 
out leaving any trace {spurlos versenkt) and contained unfriendly comment 
in reference to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Argentine Republic. 
Argentina at once asked Germany to disapprove the conduct of her repre- 
sentative at Buenos Aires, and to make an apology for the discourteous 
references concerning the Minister of Foreign Affairs. On September 12 
the following decree was issued : "As Count Karl de Luxburg, Envoy Ex- 
traordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the German Empire, is no 
longer persona grata to the Argentine Government the Executive power 
of the Nation decrees : Passports shall be given to Count Karl de Luxburg, 
Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the German Empire, 
and his diplomatic mission before the Argentine Government is thus ended." 

On September 19, the Argentine Senate, by a vote of 23 to 1, declared 
for the breaking off of diplomatic relations with Germany. The resolution 
was sent to the Chamber of Representatives for approval. A few days 
later, September 23, the Argentine Government received a note of apology 

6 



from Germany disapproving the utterances of Count Luxburg. The Argen- 
tine' Chamber of Representatives, however, voted on September 25, in favor 
of the rupture vi^ith Germany. The vote was 53 to 18. 

The resolution passed by the Argentine Senate reads as follows : 

"The Argentine Senate is deeply affected by the conduct of the ex- 
Minister of the German Empire, Count Luxburg, in the matter of the tele- 
grams transmitted to the German Foreign Office through the Swedish Lega- 
tion in this capital and published by the Department of State of the United 
States of America ; it believes that such conduct is an offense against diplo- 
matic morals and the most elementary principles of humanity as contained 
in our laws, against the traditional policy of loyalty, honesty and justice 
of the Argentine Republic, and against the right of free navigation of 
vessels carrying its neutral flag in the present war; it is firmly convinced 
that such acts may jeopardize the immunity of its flag, the lives of its 
nationals and the neutrality of the Republic as well as its territorial sover- 
eignty, in exercising within its jurisdiction acts of espionage to the detri- 
ment of the commerce of the republic and that of the belligerent nations 
which are friendly to it. It believes, furthermore, that the attitude to be 
adopted by the Government in this emergency must foster the uninterrupted 
fraternal friendship which has united at all times the States of this Conti- 
nent, upon the basis of common democratic ideals and of international 
justice. The order of expulsion against the above-mentioned Minister from 
the territory of the nation, is not, in its judgment, sufficient reparation for 
the seriousness of the offense and wrongs committed. The Senate of the 
Nation, accordingly decrees : That the proper step to be taken in the present 
circumstances is that the Executive Power sever diplomatic relations with 
the Imperial Government of Germany." 

The Executive, however, did not consider it advisable at that time to 
break off diplomatic relations with Germany after the apology offered re- 
garding the Luxburg incidents, and the promises given to respect Argentine 
vessels. 

BOLIVIA 

When the American Legation at La Paz advised the Bolivian Foreign 
Office of the severance of diplomatic relations between the United States 
and Germany, the Minister of Foreign Affairs in his note of February 5, 
1917, replied to the American Minister that "the government of Bolivia 
considers entirely proper the noble and lofty attitude assumed by the govern- 
ment of the United States, and which is in accord with the rights of the 
neutral countries to safeguard their own interests and those of civilization 
and humanity. The government of Bolivia, therefore, frankly endorses the 
stand taken by the United States." 

The Bolivian Foreign Office being advised of the establishment of the 
submarine blockade by Germany, on February 8, 1917, answered in part 
as follows: 

"Viewed in the light of the unquestioned rights of neutral trade and 
merchant service on the high seas, and of the imprescriptible rights of civili- 

7 



zation and humanity, neither the prohibition against neutral trading nor the 
warlike aggression against neutral merchant vessels can be allowed to pass 
without a protest. And it is such a protest which the Bolivian Government 
wishes to record in this reply, and to add that it has decided to make its 
attitude in the present diplomatic crisis conform wholly with that of the 
United States Government." 

The German Minister was given his passports, April 13, 1917, the 
Bolivian Foreign Office stating that Germany having carried out to all pur- 
poses its threats against vessels and persons of neutral States and in view 
of the fact that the steamer "Tubantia" had been torpedoed in neutral 
Dutch waters, the Bolivian Minister to Berlin being aboard, diplomatic 
relations between Bolivia and the German Empire were no longer possible. 

After reviewing the German violations of international law and the 
ruthlessness of the submarine warfare as conducted by the German Empire, 
the Bolivian Minister of Foreign Affairs says in the above mentioned note: 
"Such a situation becomes more serious because Germany is carrying out 
her threats against neutral ships and persons. The government of Bolivia 
is of the opinion, therefore, that the German Government has not only 
violated all standards of justice and abolished the most fundamental prin- 
ciples of right, but has also cancelled the treaties and conventions of the 
Hague, which Germany had signed with almost all the nations of the 
world." 

The Bolivian President in his message to Congress, on August 6, 1917, 
fully endorsed the stand taken by President Wilson in defense of the prin- 
ciples of humanity and justice. "The attitude of Germany" — said the 
President — "characterized by a warlike frenzy which the German writers 
and publicists consider indispensable in order to attain the desired goal, 
discovered the fact that German ambitions were a threat to the world, 
which not only jeopardized the rights and principles already established but 
endangered likewise the very life of all peoples who were powerless to 
resist by the force of arms the formidable military power of the Empire. 

"As in America, however, there exists among us great rights and great 
principles which should be safeguarded — Independence acquired after fif- 
teen years of struggle and a Democracy which is the very soul of nations — 
we considered it indispensable to raise the banner of principles in order to 
oppose moral force to brute force. 

"Among the benefit which, after all, the world will draw from the war 
with the beginning of a new international order, will be, not the least, the 
necessary strengthening of the ideas of right and democracy. The terrible 
lessons of the war will help to form a universal conscience. The principle 
of nationalities, whether they be great or small, and the doctrine of uni- 
versal democracy, shall be the noble goals which the future peace will set." 



BRAZIL 

The first step in connection with Brazil's attitude in the war was its 
reply on February 7, 1917, to Germany's notification of its submarine war- 
fare. At that time, Brazil, through its Foreign Office, made clear the desire 
of the Brazilian Government to maintain its position of neutrality, reserving 
the right to present in due time such claims as might arise in concrete cases 
affecting Brazilian interests. 

It was also stated that a deep impression had been created in Brazil by 
the German intention to sacrifice lives, destroy property and disorganize 
commerce, . without regard to international law. It was also pointed out 
that Brazil could not accept the blockade as effective and that the Brazilian 
Government, in harmony with international usages, conventions and agree- 
ments, was bound to protest against such a blockade, placing on the German 
Government the responsibility of any acts affecting Brazilian citizens, ships 
and merchandise. 

As the result of the sinking of the steamer "Parana," by a German 
submarine without warning, on the night of April 3, 1917, off Point Bar- 
fleur with loss of lives, the Brazilian Government broke off diplomatic rela- 
tions with Germany on April 11, 1917. A few weeks later another Brazilian 
vessel was torpedoed by a German submarine and the President of the 
Republic sent to the Congress a message, favoring the seizure of German 
ships anchored in Brazilian ports. Excerpts of the message are as follows : 

"The Brazilian nation is fully aware of the attitude which the govern- 
ment adopted upon receiving from Germany the declaration that she in- 
tended to establish a blockade by submarines of the west as well as of a 
part of the southern coast of Europe, thereby curtailing the freedom of the 
seas and extending indiscriminately to all parts of the world the war in its 
most violent form. 

"The Brazilian Government at that time presented its protest and, upon 
the occasion of the torpedoing of the 'Parana,' broke diplomatic and com- 
mercial relations with Germany. The torpedoing of a second ship, without 
warning, and the fear that our fleet and foreign trade will continue to suffer, 
obliges the government to resort to measures of defense, upon the nature 
of which the National Congress will decide. The members of the govern- 
ment, in bringing this matter to the attention of Congress do not seek to 
evade responsibility or to refrain from expressing an opinion thereon. They 
believe that the employment of the merchant ships of German nationality 
anchored in Brazilian ports is urgently necessary apart from any idea of 
seizure which would not accord with the spirit of our legislation and would 
be at variance with the general feeling throughout the country." 

The decree of neutrality of April 25, 1917, in the war between the 
United States and Germany was revoked on June 1, 1917, by the Brazilian 
Government and measures were taken to make use of the German merchant 
vessels anchored in the ports of Brazil, and to take the necessary steps for 
the protection of Brazilian shipping abroad and any other measures in co- 

9 



operation with friendly nations which might secure the freedom of its 
foreign trade. 

The Brazilian Ambassador in Washington in his note of June 4, 1917, 
to the Department of State, informing it of the revocation of the decree 
of neutrality, says as follows : 

"The President of the Republic has just instructed me to inform Your 
Excellency's Government that he has approved of the law which revokes 
Brazil's neutrality in the war between the United States of America and 
the German Empire. The Republic thus recognized the fact that one of the 
belligerents is a constituent portion of the American Continent and that we 
are bound to that belligerent by traditional friendship and the same senti- 
ment in the defense of the vital interests of America and the accepted prin- 
ciples of law. 

"Brazil ever was and is now free from warlike ambitions, and while it 
always refrained from showing any partiality in the European conflict, it 
could no longer stand unconcerned when the struggle involved the United 
States, actuated by no interest whatever but solely for the sake of inter- 
national judicial order, and when Germany included us and the other neutral 
powers in the most violent acts of war. 

"While the comparative lack of reciprocity on the part of the American 
Republics divested until now the Monroe Doctrine of its true character, by 
permitting of an interpretation based on the prerogatives of their sover- 
eignty, the present events which brought Brazil even now to the side of the 
United States at a critical moment in the history of the world, are still 
imparting to our foreign policy a practical shape of continental solidarity, 
a policy, however, that was also that of the former regime whenever any 
of the other sister friendly nations of the American continent was con- 
cerned. The Republic strictly observed our political and diplomatic tradi- 
tions and remained true to the liberal principles in which the nation was 
nurtured. 

"Thus understanding our duty and Brazil taking the position to which 
its antecedents and the conscience of a free people pointed, whatever fate 
the morrow may have in store for us, we shall conserve the constitution 
which governs us and which has not yet been surpassed in the guarantees 
due to the rights, lives, and property of foreigners." 

On October 25, 1917, the President of the Republic sent a message to 
Congress declaring that it was impossible to avoid noting already the state 
of war which Germany had imposed on Brazil. The chamber of repre- 
sentatives by an almost unanimous vote declared on October 26, that a state 
of war existed between Germany and Brazil. The vote was 149 to 1. The 
Senate unanimously approved the proclamation of a state of war with 
Germany, on October 26, and the following resolution was passed : "A state 
of war between Brazil and the German Empire, provoked by the latter, is 
hereby recognized and proclaimed, and the President of the Republic, in 
accordance with the request contained in his message to the National Con- 
gress, is hereby authorized to take such steps for the national defense and 
public safety as he shall consider adequate, to open the necessary credits 
and to authorize the credit operations required. All previous measures to 
the contrary are hereby revoked." 

10 



When His Holiness the Pope addressed a note of peace to all belligerents, 
the Brazilian Foreign Office instructed the Brazilian Minister to the Vati- 
can to present a note to the latter declining the peace proposal. The note 
states the aims of Brazil in the war and reads in part as follows : 

"Your Excellency will say to His Holiness that Brazil would have re- 
mained outside of the European conflict, notwithstanding her sympathies 
toward the noble cause of the allies, if Germany had not brought to America 
the violent processes of war, placing obstacles in the way of all trading 
between neutral countries. 

"Brazil could not fail in her duty as an American nation, and in finally 
taking the step which placed us among the belligerents we did so without 
hatred and without entertaining any ideas of material gain ; we have taken 
measures to defend our flag and the fundamental rights of our country; 
to-day, fortunately, all the Republics of the New World, some with greater 
reason than others, but all in equal danger of losing their liberty and their 
sovereign rights, have become united by a feeling of solidarity which is 
justified by geographical, economic, and historical reasons, which the neces- 
sity for mutual defense as a guarantee of national independence has made 
political also. Brazil cannot, therefore, maintain an isolated attitude, nor 
may she express an isolated opinion, as she has become entirely identified — 
feeling it her duty to be so — with the nations which are now her allies." 

The forty-six German ships lying in Brazilian ports, aggregating 240,000 
tons, were seized, and were chartered by the French Government which 
placed them in service between American and European ports. The Bra- 
zilian navy has been cooperating with the American and Allies' fleets in 
European waters. 

CHILE 

When the German Government informed Chile of the establishment of 
the submarine blockade, the Chilean Foreign Office sent to the German 
Minister to Chile the following note, made public on February 7, 1917 : 

"The Chilean Government has taken cognizance of the note sent to it 
by his Majesty the German Emperor, in which Chile is informed that Ger- 
many has fixed the limits of a blockade area around the coasts of England, 
France and Italy, and in the Eastern Mediterranean. It has been informed 
also that within said limits Germany will resort to hostile acts against what- 
ever ship is encountered, even if it belongs to a neutral power. 

"Such a measure, in the opinion of the Chilean Government, amounts 
to a restriction of the rights of neutrals, to which restriction Chile cannot 
agree because it is contrary to the principles that have been long established 
in favor of neutral nations. 

"The acceptance by Chile of the measures adopted by Germany would, 
moreover, divert her from the line of strict neutrality which has been fol- 
lowed during the European conflict. 

"Chile consequently reserves liberty of action to protect all of her rights 
in the event of any hostile acts against her ships." 

The President of Chile sent a message to the chamber of deputies, on 
June 1, 1917, on the occasion of the opening of congress, expressing his 
satisfaction that Chile had been able to maintain her neutrality in the world 

11 



war, but declaring that the republic reserved her right to take any action 
which might be required for the defense of her interests. The message was, 
in part, as follows : 

"The president of the republic expresses his satisfaction that good rela- 
tions have been maintained unaltered with the friendly nations who are 
engaged in this lamentable war. The government, in accord with the 
principles of law, adopted a line of conduct inspired by the most rigid spirit 
of neutrality when special circumstances drew the United States into the 
conflict and caused Brazil and other republics, equally bound to Chile in 
strict bonds of friendship, to break off relations with one of the belligerent 
powers. 

"When one of the warring nations expressed its intention to execute 
hostile acts against neutral merchant ships, thus destroying the liberty of 
maritime community, we found ourselves obliged to adopt a reserved atti- 
tude as, in our opinion, we could not have accepted this situation, without 
doing away with our neutrality. 

"We have had the satisfaction of seeing all the American Governments 
formulate an analogous declaration confirming the sentiments of union which 
animate the republics of this continent. We will maintain our determina- 
tion to defend our rights and to give equal guarantees on our territory to 
all powers for the free exercise of their privileges, so as to avoid difficulties 
which might oblige us to abandon the course chosen." 

The Foreign Office in response to a note from Uruguay communicating 
the decree issued by Uruguay in which it was declared that it would not 
regard as a belligerent any American nation which is in a state of war with 
nations of other continents, said in part : 

"My government is pleased to show to Uruguay, with which it main- 
tains such a loyal friendship, that it appreciates highly the reasons of 
Americanism which have inspired the resolution of the government of 
Uruguay." 

Three of the German steamers anchored in Chilean ports were chartered 
by Chile late in June, 1918. The Chilean Government gave security that the 
steamers in question had been guaranteed safe traffic by the Allied Govern- 
ments and it was provided that on all voyages the steamers must either be 
provisioned with sufficient coal to make the round trip to Chilean ports or 
be guaranteed a sufficient supply at the port of their destination to permit 
them to return to Chile. The steamers were considered as delivered pro- 
visionally to the Government of Chile from the 15th of June, 1918, full 
inventory was to be taken and the government to acquire all stores and 
supplies on board the ships. All differences which might arise in connection 
with the charter were to be settled by a board of three experts, one named 
by each side and the third by common accord, or, failing that, by the manager 
of the Bank of Chile. The ships were to be chartered without their Ger- 
man crews. 

The President of Chile, in his message to Congress of June 1, 1918, 
upheld the neutrality of his country. 

12 



COLOMBIA 

Colombia declared its neutrality in the European conflict on August 17, 
1917, and maintained its original position. 

The Colombian Foreign Office later on addressed a communication to 
the press of Colombia, expressing its steadfast purpose of maintaining a 
strict neutrality. 

When the German Government informed Colombia of the establishment 
of the submarine blockade and the ruthless campaign against belligerent 
as well as neutral ships, the Colombian Foreign Office, in its note of February 
16, 1917, reserved its right to protest against any acts which would be 
inimical to Colombian interests. 

On October 17, 1917, the Colombian Senate passed the following reso- 
lution protesting against the ruthless submarine warfare conducted by 
Germany : 

"Whereas the use of submarines against all kinds of merchant vessels 
or warships, whether neutral or belligerent, without any discrimination, is 
a practice contrary to international law and so qualified not only by the 
Government of Colombia, but by other neutral governments. Now, there- 
fore, the Senate of Colombia protests against the aforesaid practice. 

"It is of the opinion that the submarines of the nations which use them, 
as above stated, should not receive the same treatment as warships which 
follow the rules of international law. The Senate of the Republic, therefore, 
believes that they should not be admitted into the ports and other jurisdic- 
tional waters of the Republic, and that the nation should observe regarding 
those vessels the same conduct observed at the present time by other neutral 
governments ; such conduct is based on a sense of prudence and international 
safety." 

Finally, on July 13, 1918, the Colombian Congress passed the following 
resolution : 

"The Senate of Colombia sends greetings to the French Republic, offers 
its homage of admiration and sympathy and joins in France's rejoicing on 
the date of its national anniversary, which awakens glorious memories for 
all the democratic peoples of the world. 

"The Senate recalls with satisfaction the influence French thought has 
had in the national life of Colombia, and also remembers the traditional 
ties binding the republics of Colombia and France, and expresses its wishes 
that such bonds should become ever stronger, based on common ideals of 
liberty and justice." 

COSTA RICA 

Costa Rica was among the first Latin American nations to show its 
friendship to the United States, oflfering the use of its ports to the men-of- 
war of the United States. 

On September 21, 1917, the Costa Rican Government severed diplomatic 
relations with Germany. Passports were handed to the diplomatic and con- 
sular representatives of Germany in Costa Rica, and the Costa Rican legation 
and consuls in Germany were recalled. 

13 



The text of the Costa Rican decree of severance of diplomatic relations 
is as follows : 

"Whereas, While it is true that Costa Rica has deeply resented the wrongs 
systematically committed by German militarism in the present war against 
all principles upon which Ethics, Right, Liberty, and the Welfare of Human- 
ity are based, the Government of Costa Rica, in its desire of maintaining the 
strictest neutrality, has observed under such conditions the most prudent 
reserve ; 

"Whereas, Such conduct does not safeguard the national interests against 
the policy of the German Government which purposes to provoke in the 
neutral countries either conflicts of an international character or domestic 
dissensions, according to circumstances ; 

"Whereas, To avert as far as possible this constant danger which threat- 
ens us it is absolutely necessary to take precautions similar to those adopted 
by several of the republics of the American Continent, whose interests on 
the other hand are firmly bound to ours by the most strict solidarity ; 

"Now, therefore, With the approval of the Council of Government and 
by virtue of the powers conferred by Section 9, Article 99, of the National 
Constitution, 

"It is decreed : From this date diplomatic relations with the Government 
of the German Empire shall be severed." 

The Costa Rican Government finally declared war on Germany, May 23, 
1918, condemning the German methods of warfare in the strongest terms. 
The following is the text of Costa Rica's declaration of war : 

"Whereas: 1. The war provoked by Germany against the principal 
powers with intent to substitute in the world the dominion of right by a 
system of force as the supreme law of nations is virtually a fight for 
principles, the results of which interest in a very strong way all members 
of the international community; and, whereas, 

"2. In fact, the ends which Germany pursues in the present war com- 
promise the existence of the higher ideals of humanity and make void the 
most important intellectual and moral conquests of civilization, as those 
contemplated ends already shown in the course of the conflict constitute a 
deliberate violation of international laws and practices which regulate the 
substitution therefor of an exclusive and tyrannical dictatorship which, 
basing itself upon military power and upon the exercise of autocracy tends 
to the fastening of political and economical servitude upon all the peoples 
already subject to it or that in future it may conquer by the force of arms ; 
and, whereas, 

"3. Germany, by attempts against the foundations of international right, 
by means of a long series of acts characterized by the spirit of absolutism, 
has trampled upon the most respectable institutions and human doctrines and 
upon the high conception of liberty and justice which are the essence of 
universal morals, has violated the faith in public treaties, the war laws and 
the rights of neutrals, and has menaced with death the principle of existence 
for small nationalities and the indisputable privilege they have of disposing 
of their own destinies in the use of their rights and their autonomy ; and, 
whereas, 

"4. In view of these antecedents, though on account of her small material 
resources Costa Rica cannot under present conditions render to the great 
cause of humanity assistance proportionate to her high aspirations, it is 

14 



obvious that on account of the needs of her own conservation as well as 
on account of her well proven sentiments of solidarity, she is under the 
unavoidable moral duty of cooperating with firm help in the work of 
common defense into which so heroically are bound numerous peoples, to 
many of whom the Costa Rican people are tied with bonds of old and 
sincere friendship ; and, whereas, 

"5. The severance of diplomatic relations with the Imperial German 
Government which the executive power decreed on the 21st of last Septem- 
ber does not fully represent the attitude that Costa Rica should take reso- 
lutely in the presence of the conflict, an attitude which for small, weak 
countries like ours, having no other protection nor other worship than that 
of right, cannot be other than a belligerent participation against the oppress- 
ors of liberty, life, respect and autonomous government of all the nations 
of the earth, 

"By virtue of the authority granted in the resolution of this date by the 
constitutional Congress, and in accordance with Section 3, Article 99, of 
the political Constitution, and in conformity with the aforesaid, at a Cabinet 
Meeting, 

"It is decreed — Sole Article — From this date a state of war is declared 
to exist between the Republic of Costa Rica and the Government of the 
German Empire." 

CUBA 

On the day following the declaration of war of the United States against 
Germany, April 7, 1917, Cuba declared by resolution of its congress, that 
there existed a state of war between that republic and Germany. 

President Menocal, in his message to the Cuban Congress, in reviewing 
the causes which brought about a state of war between the United States 
and Germany, dwelt on the continuous violations of international law and 
of the rights of neutrals, saying in part: 

"Such acts of war without quarter against all nations whose ships or 
subjects sail or may sail the seas which the Imperial German Government 
seeks, without any vestige of right, to close to the commerce of the world 
under terrible penalties, cannot be tolerated or consented to without accept- 
ing them, ipso facto, as lawful for the present and for all time. 

"The republic of Cuba ought not to remain indifferent in the face of 
such stupendous violations of international law, which at any moment might 
be committed, as indeed has already happened, at the cost of life and 
property of her own nationals. Nor can she by any means decorously 
remain aloof from the stand nobly and courageously taken by the United 
States, to whom we are bound by sacred ties of gratitude and fraternity. 

"Cuba cannot remain neutral in this supreme conflict, for a declaration 
of neutrality would compel her to treat both belligerents alike, denying them 
with equal rigor access to her ports, and imposing upon them alike restric- 
tions and prohibitions, which would, in the present instance, be contrary 
to public sentiment, to the spirit of pacts and obligations, rather more moral 
than legal, which bind us to the United States, and would eventually, because 
of her geographical situation,' be a source of inevitable conflict, the conse- 
quence of which can be readily foreseen, with her friend and ally, and a 
proof of inexcusable weakness and condescendence toward the attitude of 
implacable and unconditional aggression proclaimed by the Imperial German 

15 



Government against the rights of all neutrals and against the principles of 
humanity and justice, which are the greatest glory of modern civilization. 

"For these reasons, and in the clear and firm conviction that I am per- 
forming one of my most sacred duties, I appeal to Congress, in whom the 
power is exclusively vested by Article 59, Paragraph 12, of the Constitution, 
to determine, with a full knowledge of the facts and with that mature deUb- 
eration which such an action demands, that the acts of unjustifiable aggres- 
sion repeatedly committed by the naval submarines of the Imperial German 
Government on the high seas against neutral shipping, notwithstanding the 
protests of all neutral nations, including Cuba, have brought about, and there 
exists a state of war between the republic of Cuba and the Imperial German 
Government, formally declaring this, and to adopt all measures which may 
be necessary, and which I shall in due course propose and recommend to 
you, for the maintenance of our rights, for the defense of our territory, 
for insuring our safety, for preventing any acts which may be committed 
or attempted to our detriment, and for earnestly cooperating to these ends 
with the government of the United States, lending it all the assistance in 
our power for defending the freedom of the seas, the rights of neutrals, 
and international justice." 

The Cuban House of Representatives and Senate unanimously adopted 
in conformity with the recommendations of the presidential message the 
following joint resolution : 

Art. 1. A state of war is hereby formally declared as from this date 
between the Republic of Cuba and the Imperial German Government, and 
the President of the Republic is authorized and directed by this resolution 
to employ all the forces of the nation and all the resources of our govern- 
ment for making war upon the Imperial German Government, in order to 
maintain our rights, to protect our territory, to provide for our safety, 
to prevent any acts which may be committed or attempted in our detriment, 
and to defend the navigation of the seas, the freedom of commerce, the 
rights of neutrals, and international justice. 

Art. 2. The President of the Republic is hereby authorized to dispose 
of the land and water forces in such manner as he may deem necessary, 
utilizing the existing forces, reorganizing them or creating new ones, and 
to dispose of the economic resources of the nation in such measure as 
necessity may require. 

The President of Cuba, in an authorized statement regarding the causes 
which led Cuba to enter the war, says in part as follows : 

"The spontaneity and decision of these acts impart to them a very high 
and patriotic significance. No recommendation of the Government of the 
United States moved the will of the Government of Cuba nor excited the 
generous passions of her people. None was necessary. The horror uni- 
versally inspired by the haughty and violent attitude in which an imperial- 
istic power, vain of its might, attempted to impose upon the world an 
intolerable domination, was joined in the Cuban people with the energetic 
will, the noble ambition to cooperate with all their strength and with all 
their resources in the sacred defense of the liberty and sovereignty of all 
peoples against the malignant and menacing military power. 

"A relatively considerable number of large German steamships were 
held by the war in Cuban ports. I ordered their immediate seizure, as the 

16 



governments of all the belligerent nations have done in similar cases, and 
turned them over to the United States to freely use them in the prosecution 
of the war. 

"To the same end of frank cooperation the Government of Cuba author- 
ized the sending of American troops to different points in Cuba for military 
instructions and preparations. For the same purpose a goodly number of 
officers and enlisted men of the Cuban army were sent to the United States 
to complete and perfect their training for war. 

"The law establishing obligatory military service empowers the President 
to take steps for sending a contingent of our present regular army to the 
European battlefields, reinforced by such volunteers who wish to go and who 
have already, indeed, begun to enlist in considerable number. The President 
is also authorized to send military missions to the United States, England, 
France, and Italy. 

"The Fourth of July, anniversary of the independence of the United 
States, and the 14th and 21st of July, celebrated in France and in Belgium 
as patriotic fetes, have been declared legal holidays. 

"On December 6, 1917, I sent a message to Congress requesting a declara- 
tion of war between the Republic of Cuba and the Imperial and Royal Gov- 
ernment of Austria-Hungary, predicated upon the same ground as my 
message of April 7th and upon the important consideration that the Austro- 
Hungarian Government, intimately allied with that of Germany, had not 
ceased to second both on land and sea the unjustifiable conduct of the latter, 
thus meriting equally with the latter the just reprobations of the nations 
allied for the maintenance of international law and the rights of civilization 
and humanity ; a course in which I was influenced also by the similar action 
of the Government of the United States. The Congress responded to my 
request by adopting the joint resolution of December 16th, by which the 
existence of a state of war between the Republic of Cuba and the Imperial 
and Royal Government of Austria-Hungary was declared, and the same 
powers vested in me as conferred by the joint resolution of April 7, 1917." 

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 

The Dominican Republic declared its neutrality in the early days of the 
war, and in June, 1917, the military government withdrew the exequatur 
of the German consular service in that country, thus severing diplomatic 
relations between the Dominican Republic and the German Empire, since 
there was no German Minister or Charge d'Affaires accredited to Santo 
Domingo. The general sentiment in the Dominican Republic is in favor 
of the Allies. 

ECUADOR 

When the United States broke off diplomatic relations with Germany, 
the Government of Ecuador stated to the Minister of the United States at 
Quito, in its note of February 11, 1917: "The efforts of neutral powers 
to soften the rigors of the present disastrous war are very commendable 
and worthy of applause, as are worthy the principles proclaimed by the 
Government of the United States in its note of April 18, 1916, addressed 
to the German Foreign Office through American Ambassador Gerard, con- 
cerning the inalienable rights of neutrals, the immunitv of noncombatants. 

17 



and those sacred rights of humanity which have universally and of old been 
accepted by civilized nations." 

The President of Ecuador, in his message to the Ecuadorean Congress of 
August 10, 1917, comments as follows on the subject: 

"We continue to uphold a policy of neutrality and our efforts to secure 
a more open and frank understanding among all nations of the American 
Continent. We have said on every occasion, when justice so demanded, 
that we are in sympathy with and have faith in the great democratic prin- 
ciples, the fundamental basis of those nations. The continent of America, 
therefore, will always find us with it." 

When Peru broke off diplomatic relations with Germany, on October 5, 
1917, it was reported that Dr. Perl, who was the German Minister at Lima, 
intended to go to Ecuador, as he was appointed Minister to both countries. 
The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ecuador, however, announced on Octo- 
ber 7th that the German Minister would not be received officially at Ecuador, 
in case he intended to present his credentials to the Ecuadorean Government, 
because Ecuador could not receive him without doing violence to the prin- 
ciples of American solidarity which governed her foreign policy. 

Ecuador broke off diplomatic relations with Germany, December 7, 1917, 
on account of improper conduct of a German diplomat, Mr. Muller, who 
sought to impose upon the Ecuadorean Government his recognition as Charge 
d'Affaires of Germany, though the Government of Ecuador never was will- 
ing to recognize his official character. The Ecuadorean Chancery was also 
induced to break relations with the German Empire, by principles of 
American solidarity. 

The President in his message to Congress, dated Avigust 10, 1918, made 
the following comment relative to the severance of diplomatic relations : 

"On December last we broke off diplomatic relations with the German 
Empire. In the sessions of 1917, the Congress had been already informed 
of our refusal to receive the German Minister, Mr. Perl, a refusal which 
impHed of course the suspension of our diplomatic intercourse with Ger- 
many. The attitude of Mr. Muller and our duty to follow a course which 
should express our solidarity with many countries of America which have 
already adopted a similar attitude or have gone even farther in their expres- 
sion of international policy, have seemed to us sufficient reasons to justify 
Ecuador, which is a democratic country with liberal institutions, in adopting 
such a course." 

GUATEMALA 

The Government of Guatemala, in its note of March 7, 1917, protested 
against the German Government's submarine blockade, of which it was 
notified on February 9th, stating that the whole policy adopted by the Ger- 
man Admiralty constituted a violation of the rights of nations. No attention 
whatever was paid to this protest, neither by the German Government nor 
by its diplomatic representative in Guatemala, and thereupon the Guatemalan 
Government broke oft" diplomatic relations in its note of April 27, 1917. 

18 



"In communicating the action of my government to your Excellency" — 
said the Minister of Guatemala to the Secretary of State — "I take pleasure 
in reiterating that Guatemala from the first has adhered to and supported 
the attitude of the United States in the defense of the rights of nations, 
the liberty of the seas and of international justice, and that it always has 
considered itself in unity with your great nation in the lofty principles 
which it has so wisely proclaimed for the good of humanity. 

"Therefore, Guatemala takes the greatest pleasure in offering to the 
United States of America her territorial waters, her ports and railways, 
for use in common defense, as also all elements which may be available 
for the same purpose." 

By decree dated April 21, 1918, of the National Legislative Assembly, 
Guatemala assumed the same attitude of belligerency toward the German 
Empire as the United States, according to a cable sent by President Estrada 
Cabrera to the Guatemalan Minister to Washington. At that time the 
following announcement was made : 

"The Minister of Guatemala in Washington has informed Secretary 
Lansing that he received a cablegram from President Estrada Cabrera of 
Guatemala stating that the National Legislative Assembly has issued a decree 
to the effect that the republic takes the same attitude as a belligerent as 
the attitude taken by the United States against the German Empire. 

"This decree comes as the consequence of the exchange of notes between 
the Guatemalan legation in Washington and the Department of State, when, 
on the 27th of April last, Guatemala severed its diplomatic relations with 
Germany and placed at the disposal of the United States all its elements 
for the common defense in the world conflict, which attitude the assembly 
has approved by making the constitutional declaration incumbent to it. 
Therefore, Guatemala is to-day in a state of war with Germany and its 
allies and on the side of the United States to uphold the rights of America 
and humanity, an attitude which it will maintain until, in accord with the 
United States, a lasting peace can be obtained based on the respect to the 
rights of the people and justice between nations, when Prussian militarism 
will cease to be a menace to the free countries and when the remains of 
barbarism will no longer attempt against modern civilization." 

HAITI 

On May 11, 1917, the National Assembly of Haiti protested against the 
establishment of the submarine blockade by Germany, placing the responsi- 
bility on the latter for the lives and interests of Haitian subjects traveling 
on the high seas with consequent indemnities and satisfactions. 

In the same document a benevolent policy was adopted toward the United 
States, and it was declared that diplomatic relations would be broken off 
with Germany if necessary. 

When several natives of Haiti lost their lives on the "Karnak" and 
"Montreal," the proper representations were made. Germany, in reply, 
handed the Charge d'Affaires of Haiti his passports, thus compelling Haiti 
in turn to dismiss the German Charge d'Affaires on June 16, 1917. 

The Government of Haiti declared war on Germany on July 12, 1918. 

19 



The President of Haiti, in a proclamation addressed on the same date 
to the Haitian people, says : "In the mighty conflict which stains with blood 
the whole world, two principles are opposed: One of them is brute force, 
inexorable, heartless, inaccessible to those lofty ideals which are the honor 
and the fundamental reason for the existence of the society of nations. 

"Opposed to this principle is the Right, the sacred Right, which is the 
emblem of the great moral conquest of Humanity. The small nations, 
therefore, have in their international life a sole force — Right — which is the 
guaranty of their existence. 

"Drawn by the inevitable development of events to the point of taking 
part in this mighty struggle, the Republic of Haiti could not hesitate for a 
moment. Germany, the formidable military power fighting against the 
nations, has declared herself in open rebellion against Right. Our place, 
therefore, is among the peoples which are fighting her, and which are fighting 
her with such heroism, supported by our powerful and natural ally, the 
United States, admirable in her lofty ideals, whose military genius has 
already revealed itself in achievements of wonderful courage." 

The Department of State sent the following message to the Minister of 
Foreign Affairs of Haiti : 

"I have the honor to express on the part of the Government of the United 
States to the Government of Haiti, the active sympathy which this action 
by the Haitian Government evokes in the government and people of the 
United States. They deeply appreciate the association of the government 
and people of Haiti in this world war, and are proud to see the flag of 
another American republic added to the standards of those already raised 
in the common cause of world liberty," 

HONDURAS 

Honduras broke off diplomatic relations with Germany on May 17, 1917, 
as a protest against the submarine campaign. In the decree of that date, 
it is declared that "Honduras makes common cause with the United States, 
considering that it is incumbent upon her to declare her attitude in the 
conflict between the United States and Germany on account of the sub- 
marine warfare, in violation of the principles of international law, the 
rights of neutral property and the commerce on the high seas." 

The Government of Honduras offered to the United States its decided 
cooperation in every way possible, and on July 19, 1918, declared war 
on Germany, according to the following decree : 

"Francisco Bertrand, Constitutional President of the Republic of Hon- 
duras, 

"Considering that the motives which originated the severing of the 
diplomatic relations of this republic with the German Empire have become 
accentuated, being characterized every day by greater gravity for the inter- 
national life of all the peoples, 

"Considering that continental solidarity imposes upon the States of Amer- 
ica the duty to contribute according to the measure of their abilities toward 
the triumph of the cause of civilization and of the right which, with the 

20 



allied nations, the United States of America defends, and that consequently 
a definite attitude in the present conflict of the world is demanded. 

"Therefore, in council of ministers, decrees : 

"Article 1st. It is declared that there exists a state of war between the 
Republic of Honduras and the Government of the German Empire. 

"Article 2nd. Account shall be rendered to the National Congress at 
its next sessions." 

Upon receipt of a note from the Minister from Honduras officially 
informing the Department of his government's action in regard to the 
declaration of a state of war with Germany, the Department of State in- 
structed the American Minister at Tegucigalpa to inform the Government of 
Honduras "That it is with deep satisfaction that the Government of the 
United States learns that the Government of Honduras has decreed the 
existence of a state of war between Honduras and Germany. 

"The Government of the United States considers this action against the 
common foe of civilization a further proof that Honduras firmly espouses 
the cause of democracy, and tenders its congratulations to its sister republic 
upon the noble and high-minded position it has assumed in placing itself 
on the side of the other free nations which are championing the cause of 
humanity." 

MEXICO 

Mexico declared its neutrality and its position is outlined by the Execu- 
tive in his message before Congress on April 15, 1917. He said: "Having 
in view the fulfilment of the high duty of preserving and defending the 
national interests and inspired always by the most altruistic and humani- 
tarian motives, I shall guide the conduct of the government under my charge 
by all possible and dignified means, in the direction of a most strict and 
rigorous neutrality." 

President Carranza, at the opening of the Congress on September 1, 
1917, reviewed the efforts the Mexican Government had made toward peace, 
mentioning the note in which it is proposed that all neutrals cease shipping 
supplies to the belligerents. He said that probably as a result of this action, 
Argentina had proposed a conference to discuss the attitude of neutral 
nations, but after many countries had agreed to attend it, it had been decided 
to postpone the conference indefinitely. 

President Carranza said that while his efforts for peace had not yet been 
successful, Mexico would still strive toward that end, and concluded by 
stating that Mexico surely would observe the strictest neutrality which had 
been and will be its rule of conduct. 

The President of Mexico, on the occasion of the presentation of the 
credentials of the Belgian Minister, in March, 1918, dwelt on the sacrifices 
of Belgium as follows : 

"It is a great pleasure for me to express to Your Excellency on this 
solemn occasion that Belgium in taking up arms, as Your Excellency affirms, 
in defense of her neutrality, her honor and her independence, has fulfilled 

21 



the most heroic act of modern times for the glory and example of weak 
nations. The countries which are not ready to shed the last drop of blood 
in defense of their autonomy and their institutions, have no right to be 
counted in the concert of free nations, and those which do not measure 
dangers or curtail sacrifices to preserve them, although they may be de- 
feated and chained, may rest assured of the advent of the bright day of 
their liberty, because they are worthy of it, because they live for it, and 
were born to enjoy it. 

"Belgium should be proud of her conduct and satisfied with her sacri- 
fices, because she knows how to fulfil her highest and most patriotic duties, 
making herself worthy of universal admiration and even of the respect and 
consideration of her own enemies. It is to be hoped that the bloody and 
terrible tragedy now being enacted in Europe may not prove fruitless, and 
that it may reveal new horizons in international life, firmly assuring the 
equality of all nations, whatever their importance might be, permitting them 
the free enjoyment of their sovereignty and of their rights, and that instead 
of the constant struggle among the countries of adverse interests, the most 
unconditional respect, frank and loyal cooperation may ensue for the 
benefit of their own inhabitants and those of other nations of the world. 

"I sincerely appreciate the friendly sentiments of your sovereign, as well 
as the kind wishes manifested by him for the prosperity of the United 
States of Mexico, and I beg Your Excellency to accept my most cordial and 
fervent wishes for the happiness of His Majesty King Albert I of Belgium, 
and for the personal welfare of Your Excellency. It shall be gratifying 
for my government to aid your efforts in strengthening the relations between 
our respective countries, and in giving you this assurance, I take pleasure 
in expressing my best wishes that your country may regain with its Hberty 
its old splendor protected by an everlasting and fruitful peace." 

The Mexican Ambassador comments as follows on the international 
policy of his country : 

"Our chief aim now is to remain neutral. To us this is not only a just, 
but a necessary policy. Mexico's position is not like that of other countries, 
which until recently have enjoyed the benefits of peace, and have now felt 
it necessary to embark upon a policy of war. 

"Should we develop our resources as a means to remedying the destruc- 
tion which war always brings and reconstruct the country, or should we 
interrupt our construction work to seek out a policy which even your own 
leaders agree would be detrimental to the interests of the Mexican people? 

"If the question of Mexico's national honor or Mexico's sovereign rights 
were involved, a deliberate policy of self-sacrifice might be necessary. But 
the belligerent countries have not given us cause for resentment, and our 
interests have not been injured, nor have they been seriously threatened. 
We cannot afford to participate in the war on one side or the other if we 
can honorably avoid it. Our policy is, therefore, one of peace and recon- 
struction as against war and its ravages." 

NICARAGUA 

Nicaragua broke off diplomatic relations with Germany on the 18th of 
May, 1917, and in the note of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Amer- 
ican Minister full sympathy with the policy of the United States is ex- 
pressed. The Minister states that by instructions of the President of the 

22 



l^epublic, he declares that Nicaragua is in full accord with the attitude the 
United States has taken for the safety of all the Latin American Continent, 
and as a measure of defense of the highest ideals and principles of civ- 
ilization. 

Nicaragua declared war on Germany May 8, 1918, according to the 
following decree : 

"The Senate and Chamber of Representatives of Nicaragua decree : 

"1st. It is hereby declared that from now on there exists a state of war 
between Nicaragua and the Imperial Governments of Germany and Austria- 
Hungary. 

"2nd. It is hereby declared that Nicaragua makes common cause with the 
United States of America and with the Latin American RepubHcs which are 
at war with the said Imperial Governments. 

"3rd. Now, therefore, it is declared that the republic is in a state of 
siege and the Executive is hereby authorized to take all necessary steps to 
secure the earnest cooperation of Nicaragua, in compliance with this 
decree." 

The President of Nicaragua declared the Fourth of July a national 
holiday. 

PANAMA 

Panama declared war on Germany, April 7, 1917. The President of 
that country, in his proclamation to the people, dated April 7, 1917, de- 
clared: "Our indisputable duty in this tremendous hour of history is of a 
common ally, whose interests and existence as well are linked indissolubly 
with the United States. As the situation creates dangers for our country, 
it is the duty of the Panaman people to cooperate with all the energies and 
resources they can command for the protection of the canal and to safe- 
guard national territory. 

"The attitude of the people was foreseen and interpreted faithfully in a 
resolution unanimously approved by the National Assembly on February 
24th, and confirmed by later laws, and the moment has arrived for the 
Executive to act in accordance w^ith the declarations of the supreme body. 
I therefore declare that the Panaman Nation will lend emphatic cooperation 
to the United States against enemies who execute or attempt to execute 
hostile acts against the territory of the canal, or in any manner affect or 
tend to affect the common interests. 

"The government will adopt adequate measures in accordance with the 
circumstances. I consider it the patriotic duty of all Panaman citizens to 
facilitate the military operations which the forces of the United States 
undertake within the limits of our country. Foreigners, resident or tran- 
sient, will be obliged to submit to the conditions of this declaration." 

In addition to this official document clearly defining Panama's attitude. 
President Valdez sent a message on April 6, 1917, to President Wilson, 
indorsing the action of the United States in declaring war against Germany, 

23 



"after the United States had given unequivocal proofs of its love of peace, 
and had made efforts to save vi^estern civilization from the horrors of war, 
and had borne with patience a long series of provocations as irritating as 
they have been unjustifiable. But all has been in vain. The persistency of 
Germany in trampling upon the rights of neutrals and the international 
treaties upon which rest the confidence and the peace of the world and the 
principles of justice and humanity which form the moral heritage of man- 
kind, has resulted in her losing gradually the good will of the nations, and 
it will end in arousing against her the hostility of the whole world. 

"The republic of Panama, whose future is so intimately identified with 
that of the great American democracy, will take upon itself in this trial the 
obligations concurrent with its conception of solidarity." 

The National Assembly of Panama, on the 10th of December, 1917, 
imssed the following resolution declaring a state of war with Austria- 
Hungary : 

"The National Assembly of Panama: In view of the message of the 
President, in which he advises the National Assembly of the declaration of 
war made by the Congress of the United States of America on the Austro- 
i Hungarian Empire, and considering that the Republic of Panama has ex- 
pressed before in its laws and resolutions its firm willingness to lend to the 
United States of America all the powers and cooperation that it may be 
capable of in the present war, making common cause with the democratic 
nations which are fighting to impede the predominance of the world by the 
Teuton powers, be it 

"Resolved, That the Republic of Panama be declared in a state of war 
from to-day, December 10, 1917, with the Austro-Hungarian Empire. 

"That the President be invested with the necessary powers to cooperate 
with the United States of America in the prosecution of the war in accord- 
ance with the principles of international law." 

PARAGUAY 

Paraguay maintained her neutrality in the present conflict. But as an 
<ividence of the feeling of the people, on July 11, 1917, a great meeting took 
place in the capital, Asuncion, attended by the most prominent citizens, by 
the intellectual element of Paraguay and by Paraguayan society, and a great 
tribute was rendered to the United States for having entered into the con- 
flict in defense of the principles of humanity and democracy. 

Some of Paraguay's leading men were speakers on that occasion and 
they referred to the attitude of the United States in the conflict and to the 
necessity of Paraguay's intervention in the world war. They hailed the 
United States as the champion of human rights, and particularly of the 
rights of the republics of the New World. 

Paraguay has shown her friendship toward the United States, stating 
her regret "that military operations of the German Empire, opposed to the 
principles and conventions on which the rights of neutrals are founded and 
regulated in maritime warfare, have forced the United States of America 
to appeal to arms in order to re-establish the rule of law by the recovery 
of those rights," and declaring also that "Paraguay and its government in 

24 



these moments accompany the United States of America and the American 
Government with the most Hvely sympathy." 

The following statement made by Dr. Cecilio Baez, former President 
of Paraguay and also formerly Paraguayan Minister in Washington, may be 
taken as an indication of Paraguayan views on the attitude taken by the 
United States: 

"The reception given at this time to the American fleet by the govern- 
ments of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, with enthusiastic popular mani- 
festations, shows plainly enough that there exists a union of interests, both 
moral and material, between the great republic of the north and the countries 
of South America. 

"Our republics began their existence as independent states protected by 
the United States and England against the possible aggression of the holy 
alliance. For that reason the names of Canning, Henry Clay, and Monroe, 
the first friends of the nations of Latin America, are always gratefully 
remembered by the people of this continent. 

"The moral support of Latin America to the cause of the United States 
has not been denied. It has been given with all spontaneity and enthusiasm, 
as it was natural that all the democracies of America would accompany her 
with plaudits and with fondest hopes for the triumph of the good cause. 
The friendly attitude of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Guatemala is in 
a special manner an eloquent demonstration of American union. Paraguay 
shares this sentiment, as she has given evidence of her sincere adhesion to 
the cause which the United States and the other powers of the entente 
defend." 

PERU 

The reply of the Peruvian Government to the announcement of the 
German blockade, made public on February 9, 1917, declares that it reserves 
all rights for the protection of Peruvian citizens, ships, and cargoes to which 
neutrals are entitled under international law. The note continues : 

"However deplorable may be the extremes to which the belligerents are 
carrying hostilities now, under new threats to neutral trade, the Peruvian 
Government must declare that it cannot admit the resolution of which your 
government has given notification, because the Peruvian Government con- 
siders it opposed to international law and the legal rights of neutrals. 

"The recent odious case of the vessel 'Lorton,' which resulted in a claim 
being made by my government, proves the error and injustice of the sub- 
marine campaign, now generalized in an unacceptable form by the closure 
of enormous zones of free seas, with serious danger to the lives and interests 
of the neutral countries." 

The Peruvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, in replying to the American 
Minister respecting President Wilson's suggestion that other neutral nations 
take the same position as the United States on the German submarine 
campaign, said: 

"In reply to Your Excellency's note of February 9th, it gives me pleasure 
to say that my government fully appreciates the principles and intentions 
that guide Your Excellency in the present emergency, which are in complete 

25 



conformity with your note of April 18th, and which uphold the defense of 
rights of all neutral nations, seriously threatened by the new methods of 
maritime war now attempted to be established. 

"My government trusts that some modification can still be obtained, 
speeding the way to sentiments of justice and concord which will prevent 
the bringing upon America the horrors of a war without parallel in history." 

The President of Peru, in his message to the Peruvian Congress on July 
28, 1917, endorsed the principles of justice and right set forth in President 
Wilson's war message. 

"Peru," said President Pardo, "which in all her acts of international life 
has endeavored to incorporate those principles of justice in the judicial and 
political relations of the American people ; Peru, which in a war not far 
back sacrificed for these ideals the blood of her sons, her wealth and her 
hopes for the future, cannot be indifferent to the words of President Wilson, 
and adheres, once more, to such noble purposes. 

"The sufferings of humanity during these years of terrible warfare, 
which draws into it the most powerful and most peaceful democracy of 
history, shall not have been in vain if through these efforts there is raised 
the new structure of international society upon the immutable foundation of 
justice and of respect to sovereignty." 

Upon the sinking of the Peruvian bark "Lorton," on February 5, 1917, 
the Government of Peru sent a strong note of protest to the German Gov- 
ernment, followed later by a refusal to submit the case to a German prize- 
court. 

In a second note the Government of Peru earnestly demanded an answer 
to its first note, saying that it would consider it an unfriendly act if it did 
not receive advices within a week. 

An important resolution was also passed by the House of Representatives 
on September 7, 1917, which unanimously resolved: "Its endorsement of the 
established principles of Justice and International Ethics, as proclaimed by 
President Wilson." The Senate, on September 8, 1917, declared that "The 
international policy of Peru must be inspired in the principle of the soli- 
darity of the nations of the American Continent with the United States, in 
harmony with the ideals of international justice proclaimed by President 
Wilson and with the declaration made on September 5th, by the Minister 
for Foreign Affairs in the House of Representatives." 

On October 5, 1917, the Peruvian Congress passed a resolution severing 
diplomatic relations with Germany, by a majority of 105 votes against 6, 
and Dr. Perl, Minister of Germany at Lima, was handed his passports on 
the same date. The Peruvian Minister of Foreign Affairs sent the follow- 
ing telegram to the Secretary of State of the United States. 

"From the beginning of the great war, in which the most powerful peo- 
ples of the world are involved, the Peruvian Government has strictly per- 
formed the duties imposed upon it by international law and has loyally 
maintained the neutrality of the Republic, trusting that its neutral rights 
would in turn be respected by the belligerents. But when the conflagration 

16 



spread to the American continent, notwithstanding the efforts exerted for 
nearly three years by the United States Government to keep that great 
people out of the conflict, Peru was confronted by new duties springing 
from its passionate desire for the continental solidarity that has ever been 
the goal of its foreign policy, and by the necessity of defending its rights 
from the new form of maritime warfare set up by Germany. 

"That was the reason why, on receiving notice of the belligerency of 
the United States caused by the proceedings of the Berlin Government in 
violation of international law, the Peruvian Government far from declaring 
itself neutral, recognized the justice of the stand taken by the Washington 
Government. And for the same reason the President of Peru in his mes- 
sage to Congress, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in the Chamber of 
Deputies, with the express approval of the Congress, solemnly affirmed the 
adhesion of our country to the principles of international justice proclaimed 
by President Wilson. 

"It was the Peruvian Government's wish that the policy of the whole 
continent be a concerted ratification of the attitude of the Washington Gov- 
ernment, which took up the defense of neutral interests and insisted on the 
observation of international law. But the course of events did not result 
in joint action ; each country shaped its course in defense of its own invaded 
rights as it was individually prompted in its adherence to the principles 
declared by the United States. 

"Peru, for its part, while endeavoring to give prevalence to a uniform 
continental policy, maintained with the utmost firmness the integrity of its 
rights as a sovereign Nation in the face of Germany's disregard of the 
principles of naval warfare. It was the defense of these rights which led 
it to sever its diplomatic relations with the Imperial Government as the 
result of an outrage for which it duly but vainly claimed appropriate repara- 
tion ; the sinking of the vessel 'Lorton' by a German submarine on the coast 
of Spain while the ship was plying between neutral ports, engaged in a 
lawful trade, without infringing even the German rules respecting closed 
zones — unknown to international law. 

"The reluctance of the Imperial Government to meet our just demands 
according to the general principles of international law ; the very arbitrary 
rules laid down by that Government; and the unsuccessful presentation of 
a precedent in an analogous claim favorably entertained by it — these are the 
facts in which Peru reads the complete lack of justice that marks the 
course of the German Government's policy and the sound foundation there 
is for the effort to check that policy, so as to establish in the world a 
juridical standard that will forever cause justice to prevail in international 
relations. 

"The contents of this message and the documents which I shall forward 
to your excellency will enable your government to acquaint itself with the 
fundamental grounds upon which our attitude rests, and also with the nego- 
tiations with Germany above referred to, Ayhich the government has now 
brought to an end by recalling the Minister of the Republic at Berlin and 
delivering his passports to the representative of Germany at this capital, 
with the express approval of the Congress." 

The Peruvian Government on June 4, 1918, took possession of eight 
German vessels interned at Callao, with a capacity of slightly less than 
SO.OOO deadweight tons. This step, however, was not considered either by 
Peru or Germany as an act of war. 

27 



SALVADOR 

The Government of El Salvador, which had observed a strict neutrality 
since 1914, upon learning on April 10, 1917, of the declaration of war of 
the United States against Germany, instructed its Minister in Washington 
to communicate to the Secretary of State of the United States that El 
Salvador, though maintaining its neutrality, was at the same time in sympa- 
thy with the people and the Government of the United States. 

Later, in a note addressed to the Italian Minister in Central America, 
under date of August 24, 1917, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of El Sal- 
vador, stated the following: 

"I am pleased to be able to state in this connection (the entrance of 
armed Italian merchantmen into Salvadorean ports) that when the United 
States entered the war, the Government of El Salvador had the pleasure to 
inform the State Department of Washington, at the time, that El Salvador 
would maintain in the conflict a friendly neutrality. Therefore, my govern- 
ment is willing to allow the vessels of the United States to enter Salva- 
dorean ports, to stay in them or leave them irrespective of their condition 
or armaments; and as Italy is an ally of the United States, it is with 
pleasure that my government grants the request of the government of Your 
Excellency." 

As the American Minister to El Salvador sought to obtain a more 
detailed statement about the attitude of that country regarding the United 
States in its conflict with Germany, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of 
El Salvador, in a note dated October 3, 1917, to the said American Minister 
added the following: 

"My government in making such declaration (its sympathy with the 
people and the Government of the United States) understood that El Sal- 
vador as an American nation could not fail to recognize, in the conflict be- 
tween the United States and Germany, the solidarity which binds it to the 
great Republic of the North, in view of the spirit of Pan Americanism 
which should prevail among the countries of the Continent, and that for 
such reason its condition of neutrality could not lead it to the point of 
considering the United States as a belligerent subject to the ordinary rules 
of international law." 

URUGUAY 

After the entrance of the United States into the war, Uruguay expressed 
its deep sympathy with the cause defended by the Government of the United 
States. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay, in his note of April 14, 
1917, to the American Minister in Montevideo, says in part on this subject 
as follows : "Nothing having occurred to change the situation, this govern- 
ment has decided to maintain neutrality although it recognizes, as it has 
already stated, the justice of the position taken by the United States of 
America, to which it extends its moral sympathy and solidarity." 

28 



On June 18, 1917, the Government of Uruguay issued the now famous 
decree which follows : 

"Whereas ni various communications, the Government of Uruguay has 
proclaimed the principle of American solidarity as the criterion of its 
international policy, understanding that the grievance against the rights of 
one country of the continent would be considered as a grievance by all and 
provoke them to uniform and common reaction; and, 

"Whereas, in the hope of seeing an agreement in this respect eflfected 
among the nations of America which may make the practical and efficient 
application of such ideals possible, the government has adopted a watchful 
attitude with reference to its action, although it has manifested in each case 
its sympathy with those nations of the American continent which have been 
obliged to abandon their neutrality; and 

"Whereas, until such an agreement is made, Uruguay without acting 
contrary to its sentiments and convictions could not treat the American 
nations, which in defense of their own rights find themselves involved in an 
international war, as belligerents, and 

"Whereas this criterion is shared by the Senate; now, therefore, the 
president of the republic with the concurrence of the Council of Ministers, 
has seen fit to decree and does hereby decree : 

"First — That no American country, which in defense of its own rights 
should find itself in a state of war with nations of other continents will be 
treated as a belligerent; Second — That existing decrees which may be in 
contravention to this resolution shall be null and of no effect." 

Uruguay severed diplomatic relations with Germany on October 7, 1917. 
A presidential decree announced the rupture following a vote in favor of 
it by the Chamber of Representatives, 74 to 23. President Viera, in a 
message to Congress, declared that while the Uruguayan Government had 
not received any direct offense from Germany, it was necessary to espouse 
the cause of the defenders of justice, democracy and small nationalities. 
The text of the decree is as follows: 

"In view of the authority granted the Executive power by law of the 
nation of this date, authorizing said power to declare diplomatic and com- 
mercial relations broken between Uruguay and the Imperial Government 
and the reasons which have caused the legislative decision which are abso- 
lutely shared by the Executive power, the President of the Republic at a 
general cabinet meeting decrees : 

"Article one. — From the date of the present decree diplomatic and com- 
mercial relations between Uruguay and the German Imperial Government 
remain broken. 

"Article two. — That the respective passports be handed over to the 
diplomatic representatives of that government, all the guarantees for his 
personal safety being granted to him at the same time until his removal 
from the country. 

"Article three. — That telegraphic instructions be transmitted to the func- 
tionaries of the Republic in office in Germany to the effect that they imme- 
diately abandon the German territory, requesting the same guarantees 
which are granted to the German representative by the Government of 
Uruguay." 

29 



The Uruguayan Government took possession of eight German ships 
anchored at Uruguayan ports and aggregating about 50,000 tons, which 
were afterward leased to the Emergency Fleet Corporation of the United 
States. 

The German submarine N-214 held up on March, 1918, the steamship 
"Infanta Isabel" on which a mission from Uruguay was traveling to France, 
and detained the mission. The commander of the submarine explained his 
action by saying Germany considered that a state of war existed with 
Uruguay. Subsequently the mission was permitted to proceed to France. 
An inquiry was addressed to Germany by Uruguay, saying that if Ger- 
many considered herself at war with Uruguay the Uruguayan Government 
would declare war. 

Regarding this incident, the Uruguayan Government issued on May 16, 
1918, the following announcement : 

"When the Uruguayan Military Mission was detained by a German 
submarine, the commander of the submarine justified his arbitrary action 
with the state of war with Uruguay in which he said Germany had found 
itself, and said that he was acting in accordance with instructions from the 
Admiralty, which he exhibited. Our Foreign Ofifice demanded that Ger- 
many state whether the submarine commander acted in accordance with 
instructions from the government at Berlin, adding that in case a negative 
reply should be given our military representatives should be relieved of 
their engagement. (This refers to pledges which the members of the 
Uruguayan Mission were compelled to give before being permitted to 
proceed.) 

"Several days later, the Spanish Government made an offer of media- 
tion in regard to the promise made by the Uruguayan officers. Mediation 
was suggested by the German Ambassador to Spain. The Uruguayan Gov- 
ernment refused, regarding this as incompatible with the dignity of the 
nation. Moreover, the fundamental point of the question, which was 
whether Germany was or was not at war with Uruguay, must be decided 
by Germany. The German Government responded that it relieved the 
Uruguayan officers of their engagement, but in exchange hoped that Uru- 
guay would exert influence in France, to the end that the Chilean Mission 
in Spain be permitted to pass over French territory. 

"The Uruguayan Government, without accepting the abrogation of the 
pledges, called for a reply to the fundamental question — that is to say, 
whether Germany did or did not consider that a state of war existed. 
Germany replied that it was not at war with Uruguay. It said further- 
more that the rupture of relations between Uruguay and Germany was 
not brought about by itself, and called attention to Uruguay's silence on 
the subject of the passage of the Chilean Mission. 

"Meanwhile the Uruguayan Government inquired of the Chilean Gov- 
ernment if it desired Uruguay to request the French Government to author- 
ize passage of the Chilean Mission over French territory. The Uruguayan 
Government decided to take this step only as a mark of deference to a 
friendly country. The Chilean Government replied that it had no interest 
in the passage of the Mission. The Uruguayan Government informed Ger- 
many of this fact and Germany replied that it relieved the Uruguayan 
officers of their pledge without any condition. It said that the Chilean 

30 



question had been raised simply in a desire to consult Uruguay on the 
subject, and that in view of the negative reply of Chile, the German Govern- 
ment considered the incident to have been closed." 

VENEZUELA 

Venezuela has maintained its neutrality from the beginning. The mes- 
sage of the Provisional President of May 3, 1917, states : 

"Up to the present there has been no act of German submarines by 
which Venezuela has been directly affected and, therefore, it has not been 
involved in the complications which have drawn the United States to war 
with the German Empire. Notwithstanding this, Venezuela, in consequence 
of her respectful attitude toward all rights, reserves the right to defend the 
lives and the properties of her nationals. It follows the course of events 
with natural interest and identified with the principle in defense of which 
the United States has entered the war, with the traditional friendship which 
united it to this nation and with those general interests that the Republics 
of this Continent enjoy in common." 

"The attitude of Venezuela in the present war" — said the Minister of 
Venezuela in an authorized statement regarding the international policy of 
his country — "is technically one of neutrality as imposed by international 
obligations. But from published official documents it appears, first, that the 
Government of Venezuela in their reply to Germany's notification on sub- 
marine warfare, advised the German Government that such measures were 
illegal and that Venezuela reserved to herself the defense of her rights in 
case of an attack upon them ; second, that on several occasions the Govern- 
ment of Venezuela have positively declared to the Government of the United 
States their keenest sympathy with the lofty principles for the defense of 
which this country has gone to war ; third, that in his message to Congress 
on May 1, 1918, the Venezuelan Executive again declared that Venezuela 
was in full sympathy with such principles, and that events were being 
watched without losing sight of the duties imposed upon Venezuela by her 
sense of solidarity with her sister republics of the Continent, and especially 
so with the United States ; and, finally, in their reply to this message the 
Venezuelan Congress ratified the declaration made by the Executive and in 
feeling terms mentioned the loyal friendship binding Venezuela to the 
United States, and her sentiments of Pan American solidarity. In short, 
the attitude of Venezuela, while neutral until now, is nevertheless one of 
sincere and stanch friendship for the United States and her sister Latin 
American Republics." 



31 



THE PAN AMERICAN UNION is the inter- 
national organization and office maintained in 
Washington, D. C, by the twenty-one Ameri- 
can republics, as follows: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, 
Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Re- 
public, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mex- 
ico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Salvador, 
United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela. It is de- 
voted to the development and advancement of com- 
merce, friendly intercourse, good understanding and 
peace among these countries. It is supported by 
quotas contributed by each country, based upon the 
population. Its affairs are administered by a Direc- 
tor General and Assistant Director, elected by and 
responsible to a Governing Board, which is com- 
posed of the Secretary of State of the United States 
and the diplomatic representatives in Washington 
of the other American Governments. These two 
executive officers are assisted by a staff of inter- 
national experts, statisticians, commercial special- 
ists, editors, translators, compilers, librarians, clerks 
and stenographers. The Union publishes a Monthly 
Bulletin in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French, 
which is a careful record of Pan American progress. 
It also publishes numerous special reports and pam- 
phlets on various subjects of practical information. 
Its library, the Columbus Memorial Library, con- 
tains 40,000 volumes, 25,000 photographs, 150,000 
index cards, and a large collection of maps. The 
Union is housed in a beautiful building erected 
through the munificence of Andrew Carnegie. 



